BY Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
Lerato Matebese, Publishing Editor and Owner at Top Gear South Africa magazine has become motoring industry authority and is one of the longest-serving jurors of South African Car of the Year. His talents and dedication were recognised beyond our borders, and he was appointed to become a jury member of the International Car of the Year.
How did you become a motoring journalist and when did your career begin?
I entered the industry through the SAGMJ Bursary Programme in February 2006. I landed a few job offers that same year, for which I remain grateful. There were two that stood out for me, though. TopCar Magazine and Business Day Motor News. The former was my first pick, but soon after I had agreed to join the team in 2007, the magazine was sold off to Media24, meaning I would have to relocate to Cape Town. I wasn’t ready to do that, so I reluctantly declined that offer. As a result, I cut my motoring journalism teeth at Business Day from January 2007 until August 2018. And that exposed me to a great deal of opportunities, travel, and access to some of the most prolific figureheads in the automotive industry.
Was it easy to break through? What were the major challenges for you?
Easy is a relative word. The industry had its challenges, much like any other. I had to quickly learn the ropes and find my niche in the industry. I also had to forge new relationships with various manufacturer PRs, proving my credibility over time, and it paid off in the end.
What was the very first motoring launch you attended and what stood out about it?
It was the Proton Savvy back in February 2006.
What was the very first car you drove (personal and test car)? Do you still remember the feeling?
The first car was a hand-me-down Opel Monza 160 CLS from my dad after high school. I drove that car everywhere. R200 would fill the tank and I also had the requisite booming sound system, TSW Hockenheim alloy wheels, and lowered suspension. First test car was a Fiat Panda 4×4 Climbing.
What was your most embarrassing moment as a motoring journalist?
I missed a work flight once in my formative years in the industry. I was so embarrassed with myself, that I never did again.
Describe your journey to becoming a COTY jury member. What unique qualities do you bring to COTY?
My journey began in 2006 when I became a jury assistant to the late Les Stephenson that year and the late, great Wynter Murdoch in 2007. Thereafter, I was eligible to become a juror in 2008. I have been a jury member for well over a decade now, which also presented me with an opportunity to become 3 of SA’s motoring journalists to serve on the prestigious World Car of the Year jury.
What did you look for in the Car of The Year finalist this year?
As I do every year: Automotive Excellence! A car that has significantly moved the goalposts in its segment. This can include tech, drivetrain, and other aspects.
Do you believe that the jury found a perfect winner in the BMW 7 Series?
Without a doubt. The BMW 7 Series is an absolute tour de force in its segment and panders to the exact mantra of the competition; Automotive Excellence!
How do you respond to criticism that the SA COTY jury is out of touch with reality and selects expensive cars that are out of regular motorist’s reach?
As motoring journalists serving on the jury, we follow the exacting standards and guidelines set out by the competition. The collective scores are tallied up and audited and the best car emerges at the other end. Serving on both the SA and World COTY juries, I understand that individual opinions will remain, but the collective voice is what matters in the end, and that points to the transparency of the competition.
What item do you take from the hotel from launches?
The big screen TV and the bar fridge, of course. I digress! That was said in jest with tongue firmly in cheek. Hahaha! Uhm…mostly the complimentary shower gels and those disposable his & hers slippers.
